General Election case studies Flashcards
(30 cards)
What is class dealignment?
When people don’t vote for the traditional party related to their social class
Class dealignment refers to the shift in voting behavior where social class no longer dictates party loyalty.
Define partisan dealignment.
Process where individuals no longer identify themselves on a long-term basis by being associated with a certain political party
Partisan dealignment indicates a broader trend where voters become less attached to political parties.
What does governing competency refer to?
Perceived ability of a governing party in office to manage the affairs of the state well and effectively
Governing competency is often assessed through public perception and media portrayal.
Who won the 1979 UK General Election?
Conservatives
The 1979 election marked a significant political shift with Margaret Thatcher becoming Prime Minister.
Which party did Margaret Thatcher lead in the 1979 election?
Conservatives
Margaret Thatcher’s leadership was pivotal in the Conservatives’ victory.
What was the turnout percentage in the 1979 election?
76%
Turnout in elections is often a crucial indicator of public engagement.
What impact did the Winter of Discontent have on the 1979 election?
Led to public disruption and discontent with Labour’s handling of unions
The Winter of Discontent involved strikes that highlighted Labour’s struggles with union power.
What was a key pledge from the Conservatives in 1979?
Reform trade union power
This pledge resonated with voters concerned about union influence.
Who was the Labour leader during the 1979 election?
James Callaghan
Callaghan’s leadership faced criticism during the election.
What was the seat change for Labour in the 1979 election?
Down 50
This indicated a significant loss of support for Labour from the previous election.
What was a notable characteristic of Margaret Thatcher’s media strategy?
Worked for photo opportunities to show a softer side
Thatcher’s media management was crucial in shaping her public image.
Who won the 1997 UK General Election?
Labour
Tony Blair’s leadership marked a significant shift in British politics.
What was the percentage of votes won by Labour in the 1997 election?
43.2%
The Labour party’s victory was characterized by a substantial swing in their favor.
What were Labour’s 5 key pledges in the 1997 election?
- Cut class sizes
- Fast track punishment for young offenders
- Cut NHS waiting times
- Get under 25s into work
- No rise in income tax
These pledges aimed to appeal to a broad electorate.
What was a major issue for the Conservatives during the 1997 election?
Divided over their relationship with Europe
Internal divisions within the party were evident to the electorate.
What was Tony Blair’s image during the 1997 election?
Young, charismatic, and cool
Blair’s appeal helped reshape the Labour party’s image.
Who was the Conservative leader in the 1997 election?
John Major
Major’s leadership faced challenges due to party divisions and public perception.
What was the impact of the media in the 1997 election?
Blair’s campaign was media-centered and well-organized
The effective use of media was pivotal for Labour’s success.
What was the outcome of the 2019 UK General Election?
Conservatives won
Boris Johnson’s leadership proved effective in securing a majority.
What was the majority obtained by the Conservatives in the 2019 election?
80 seats
This majority allowed the Conservatives to govern with a stronger mandate.
What was a significant campaign issue for Labour in the 2019 election?
Brexit and economic policies
Labour’s unclear stance on Brexit affected their campaign.
What was the voter turnout in the 2019 election?
67.3%
Voter turnout is often indicative of public interest in the election.
Who led the Labour party in the 2024 election?
Keir Starmer
Starmer’s leadership was marked by a focus on change.
What was the impact of the Cost of Living Crisis in the 2024 election?
Significant issue affecting voter sentiment
Economic concerns played a crucial role in shaping the election outcomes.
